Published by Farmers Guide, November 2007.

Tracks for all tractors

Our exclusive pictures show the first tractor in the UK to be fitted with the agricultural track system developed by Canadian manufacturer Soucy.

The Case IH Puma 180 was demonstrated at the Royston Ploughing Match on October 17th by Collings Brothers, of Abbotsley, which will be marketing the system in the UK.

Collings Bros Managing Director Ray Runciman told Farmers Guide that he had been talking to Soucy for seven months about bringing the track system, which was launched in North America in 2006, to the UK.

"We are very excited about these tracks," he said. "The package includes a 32-inch rear track and a 25-inch front track, and they can be easily fitted to all makes of tractor from 100hp upwards.

"They provide all the benefits of tracked tractors without the usual disadvantages."

The Soucy track system is claimed to increase traction by more than 300%, in fact the manufacturer says the tracks are equivalent to having eight standard tyres on the rear axle and six on the front.

Compaction, meanwhile, is reduced, with the ground pressure for a 7,250kg tractor falling from 7.58 psi on tyres to just 2.29 psi on Soucy tracks - less than that produced by someone on foot.

Compared with two-track machines, the Soucy system doesn't scuff the ground when it turns, indeed it is capable of the same turning circle as the equivalent tractor on wheels, while other important factors include price and ease of installation.

"The cost of this system brings the benefits of a four-track system within the reach of many more farmers," Mr Runciman said, "and when the cultivation work is finished, the tracks can be swapped for the standard wheels in a day, allowing the tractor to be used throughout the year.

"No modifications are required to fit the tracks, and the mounting brackets can be left in place when the tractor is running on wheels."

Prices have still to be finalised, but Mr Runciman said that a Case IH Magnum 310 fitted with the system (and supplied with its standard wheels as well) would cost about £112,000. The Soucy Track system can also be bought on its own, customised to fit most tractor makes and models.

For more information, contact Ray Runciman at Collings Brothers on 01767 677316 or 07798 567513.